Words by Smiley Team
A US-based nonprofit has created a pageant program that promotes education, scholarships, and culture within its community.
GK Folks Foundation (GKF) is a Utah-based nonprofit dedicated to providing resources to African children in the diaspora. The foundation's aim is to create a world where African immigrants and refugees are empowered to accomplish their dreams and give back to their countries in return.
The Miss Africa Cultural Scholarship Program (MACSP) is one of the several ways African students can apply for – and compete for – African fund scholarships. The objective of the program is to promote Africa's diverse culture, educate people about the continent's rich legacy, and empower young people through education.
[Read More: McDonald’s funds scholarship for 100 Hispanic students]
Smiley News had the opportunity to speak to past contestants of the Miss Africa Arizona Pageant – all who received a scholarship through the foundation.
Winner of the 2021 pageant, Aisha Kamara, of Liberia, tells us: “Being Miss Africa Arizona means endless opportunities. It means the representation of my beautiful nation and most important continent. It means the power to teach, learn, inspire, and empower.”
And runner-up Peace Karorero, representing Burundi, says: “Being a part of Miss Africa Arizona means that I have a bigger voice that can reach many more people than before. Being Miss Africa Arizona means that I can carry and share my passion for my country, Burundi, and my continent, Africa, more than ever before."
Nafishatu Isha Turay, from Sierra Leone, – who was a second runner-up in the pageant – has used this opportunity to raise awareness of her foundation.
She tells Smiley News: “My platform is A Step Forward Foundation (ASFF), and is based on giving hope to every young woman all around the world, who has had their dreams, rights, and life ambitions stripped away from them.
“Young women, who are forced into early marriage. Early marriage can lead to life-threatening concluding such as childbirth, lack of education, trauma, and much more.”
Nafishatu adds: "Being a part of Miss Africa Arizona allows me to share my platform and to show others that the sky is the limit. No one can stop you from doing what it is that you want to do.”
Along with the scholarship pageant progam, GKF provides resources in mental health and entrepreneurship.
Check out the GK Folks Foundation to learn more about their initiatives and scholarship programs that has empowered and supported diversity and culture within the community.
